RTP introduces wet-grip thermoplastic elastomers

Speciality compounder RTP Company has introduced additional new grades to its RTP 6000 Series of functional thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) compounds.

Speciality compounder RTP Company has introduced additional new grades to its RTP 6000 Series of functional thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) compounds.

These compounds, which have been designated RTP 6011, are the latest addition to the company's growing range of TPE compounds and are designed specifically for improved wet-grip performance.

RTP 6011 provides excellent wet coefficient of friction (COF) - testing 45% higher than SBC-based TPEs and olefinic thermoplastic vulcanizates (TPVs) of equivalent hardness. The wet COF of these new products is equal to or higher than the dry COF, whereas most TPEs exhibit a significant decrease in COF when they become wet.

RTP 6011 is offered in three hardness grades including 55, 65, and 75 Shore A, and can be coloured by either concentrate or pre-colour methods. Customised grades and colours are available.

RTP 6011 can be bonded to polypropylene substrates. In addition, RTP is developing products with enhanced bonding to a variety of substrates, as well as coupling this technology with its experience in additive technologies.

End-use applications for this new wet-grip technology include marine and personal watercraft applications such as hand grips and foot pads, consumer personal care items, and household kitchen utensils. Performance enhancements in sporting good products are possible with the improved grip characteristics of these materials. Industrial markets will also benefit from the wet-grip material where it may be implemented into power tool grips, hand tool grips and conveyor foot padding.

Thermoplastic elastomers are a growth technology for RTP. 'We believe RTP is the first compounder to offer products based on this unique technology,' said Paul Killian, product manager for TPE compounds at RTP Company, 'and we will continue to aggressively develop new TPE products based on this technology.'

RTP Company has been producing TPE-based speciality compounds for over 15 years and has focused on TPE technology development for over 5 years.